A Ruined Water-Mill 1886

Peter Henry Emerson's "A Ruined Water-Mill" (1886) is a striking example of his "naturalistic" photographic style. This platinum print, now in the Art Institute of Chicago, showcases a crumbling watermill, its wooden frame partially submerged in a shallow stream. The photograph depicts the mill in a state of decay, emphasizing the passage of time and the cyclical nature of life. Emerson's work was known for its focus on capturing the beauty and authenticity of the natural world, often employing soft-focus techniques to evoke a sense of atmosphere and mystery.